Gov. Nikki Haley: Obama more concerned about protecting political allies than growing economy

Haley urges members of Congress to pass Tim Scott’s bill that reins in NLRB

July 28th

COLUMBIA, S.C. – President Barack Obama has until recently remained silent on the National Labor Relations Board’s complaint against the Boeing Company that would kill South Carolina jobs.

But now, as Congressman Tim Scott introduces legislation to rein in the NLRB and protect South Carolina employers and workers, President Obama is speaking out. “The White House opposed a bill sponsored by South Carolina Rep. Tim Scott that would reduce the power of the NLRB and prohibit it ‘from ordering any employer to relocate, shut down, or transfer employment under any circumstance.’” (Wall Street Journal, The White House vs. Boeing, 7/28/2011)

Governor Nikki Haley released the following statement in response to President Obama:

“For months, the people of our state have waited on answers from the president, and they haven’t gotten any. Now, what we’re seeing from this administration – as it allows union bullies to put themselves in between our companies and employees – is a president who is more concerned about protecting his own political allies than growing our economy. I urge members of Congress to take the pro-jobs position, and pass Congressman Scott’s bill.”

emediagroup Inc. announces expansion in Greenville County

$2.25 million investment expected to create 20 new jobs

July 28th

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Gov. Nikki Haley, the South Carolina Department of Commerce and the Greenville Area Development Corporation today announced that emediagroup Inc. will expand its facility in Greenville County. The $2.25 million investment is expected to generate 20 new jobs over the next five years.

“We are excited about expanding our footprint in the Upstate. This expansion will allow our company to increase production capacity and remain competitive within our industry. South Carolina has always provided us with an excellent business environment and we look forward to continuing to grow here,” said Joel Hogg, president of emediagroup Inc.

emediagroup Inc. is expanding its print media solutions manufacturing operation in Greenville County. The company will consolidate two facilities into an existing building on Worley Road and add new equipment to the operation as part of the expansion.

“We are always excited to see a home-grown company, like emediagroup, expand its footprint in our state and create jobs. This administration is intensely focused on improving South Carolina’s business fundamentals so that more of our existing businesses will be able to make job-creating investments like this one,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

“Entrepreneurs and small businesses are an important part of South Carolina’s economic success, and that’s because of businesses like emediagroup. Today’s announcement shows once again that our state’s business-friendly climate gives small businesses a strong foundation on which to build. We appreciate emediagroup’s decision to continue doing business in South Carolina,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

“Emediagroup’s decision to expand their business here in Greenville County is great news,” added Chris Riley, chairman of the Greenville Area Development Corporation. “Our economic development teams provided the help the company needed to make this expansion and creation of jobs a reality. This is further evidence that businesses can thrive here now and believe that the area will continue to grow and prosper in the years ahead.”

The company has already begun hiring for the new positions. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should email humanresoursces@emediagrp.com.

emediagroup Inc., started in 2004, is dedicated to the manufacture of customized, innovative print media solutions to well-established, targeted markets. The company primarily serves markets in the Southeast, with a growing national footprint. The company also has a facility in Myrtle Beach. For more information about emediagroup, please visit www.emediagrp.com.

Coastal Corrugated Inc. Announces Expansion in Dorchester County

$1.5 million investment expected to create 26 new jobs

July 25th

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Gov. Nikki Haley, the South Carolina Department of Commerce and Dorchester County today announced that Coastal Corrugated Inc., a packaging manufacturer, will expand its current operations in Dorchester County. The $1.5 million investment is expected to generate 26 new jobs.

“We are excited about the opportunity to expand our business footprint in the Lowcountry. South Carolina has continually provided our company with a positive business environment and talented workers. This new expansion is an important step for our company as we move forward,” said Jim Bozard, founder and CEO of Coastal Corrugated Inc.

Coastal Corrugated will add an additional 40,000 square feet to the company’s facility in Dorchester County. The company has secured a contract with Robert Bosch in Charleston to produce packaging for specialized manufactured parts for “just-in-time” delivery. The company expects to have the expansion completed by December of this year.

“Improving South Carolina’s economic climate so that more of our existing businesses can grow and create jobs is a top priority for this administration,” said Gov. Nikki Haley. “Coastal Corrugated’s decision to expand is another indication our efforts are on the right track.”

“Coastal Corrugated has been part of South Carolina’s business community for more than two decades, and this expansion shows the company’s commitment to our state. This announcement also serves as another sign that our state’s business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and exceptional market access are helping existing companies grow,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

Dorchester County Council Chairman Larry Hargett said, “The decision for Coastal Corrugated to expand their operations is not only a sign of strength for the organization as a whole, but is also further proof that Dorchester County has the right environment for success. Through corporate investment such as this, it is clear that our industries are finding their niche here through low business costs and a growing labor pool.”

“Coastal Corrugated is a stellar corporate citizen, and we are proud to have them as a business partner within North Charleston,” commented Mayor Keith Summey. “We welcome their renewed commitment to doing business here, and are especially energized by the high-caliber, high-paying jobs they are adding to our community.”

The company has already begun hiring for the new positions. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact Jennifer Douglas at 843-552-2697, extension 311.

Coastal Corrugated Inc. was established in 1987 in Charleston, S.C., and was the first direct manufacturer of corrugated packaging in the area. The company has continued to grow and is a past recipient of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year. Coastal Corrugated produces a wide range of specialized corrugated packaging, primarily for manufacturers and distributors. For more information about the company, please visit www.coastalcorr.com.

Constituents have opportunity to meet with governor to discuss any issue

July 21

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Nikki Haley today announced that she will hold “Open Door after 4” constituent meetings on Monday, July 25, at the National Guard Armory in Newberry, 275 General Henderson Road, Newberry, S.C. 29108. South Carolinians will have the opportunity to schedule a one-on-one meeting with Gov. Haley to discuss any issue they would like to talk about.

Anyone wishing to schedule an “Open Door after 4” appointment with Gov. Haley should call (803) 734-1999 between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on Friday, July 22. Appointments are first-come, first-served. For more information, call (803) 734-2100.

$14 million investment expected to create 159 new jobs

July 21

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Gov. Nikki Haley, the South Carolina Department of Commerce, Bamberg County, the City of Denmark and the SouthernCarolina Alliance today announced that Masonite International Corporation, a maker of residential and commercial doors, plans to invest $14 million in expanding its operations in Bamberg County. The company expects it will have added a total of 159 new jobs by the time the new technology is fully installed.

“Investing in our Denmark facility made sense on so many levels, beginning with the great local workforce,” said Glen Coulter, executive vice president of Global Operations & Supply Chain. “It’s also conveniently located near several major interstates, near major customers and our company’s Yulee, Fla. door fabrication plant that pre-hangs doors for our Southeast retail customers.”

Masonite’s manufacturing facility in Denmark produces a line of flush and molded interior panel doors. The facility was previously owned by Lifetime Doors, a company Masonite acquired in October 2010.

“We celebrate Masonite’s decision to grow its presence in South Carolina and create 159 new jobs in Bamberg County. This announcement is another big win for one of our state’s rural areas,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

“Masonite is a world leader in the manufacture of interior doors and entry door systems. The company’s decision to grow its facility in Bamberg County not only indicates Masonite’s commitment to our state, but also indicates that South Carolina’s business-friendly climate and skilled workforce are working to attract new investments and create jobs,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

The facility had previously operated as Lifetime Doors for more than five decades. The facility currently employs about 50 people.

“The Masonite name is synonymous with quality and value,” said SouthernCarolina Alliance Chairman Johnny Williamson. “The company will be an asset to our industrial community, and we look forward to their continued success and growth in our region of South Carolina.”

“Bamberg County welcomes Masonite, and we are proud to have this internationally recognized company manufacturing in our county,” said Bamberg County Council Chairman Clint Carter. “Every job created here affects a family, and that’s why job creation is the key to improving the quality of life in Bamberg County.”

The company is in the planning and engineering phase of the production line, and the new system is expected to be operational by early 2013.

“We are pleased that Masonite chose Denmark as the location to grow their operations in the Southeast,” said Mayor Gerald Wright of Denmark. “We believe that our workforce and our location played pivotal roles in their decision, and we will continue to work closely with the Masonite team to make them feel at home in Denmark.”

“Bamberg County and Masonite will make an outstanding team,” said SCA President Danny Black. “We are grateful to Masonite for their investment in our region, and we are grateful to our partners at the local, regional and state levels who made this project a reality, including Governor Haley and the team at the S.C. Department of Commerce, Bamberg County Council, the City of Denmark and the member counties of SCA who share the benefits of this success.”

The county will receive a $1.5 million grant approved by the Coordinating Council for Economic Development, to be issued to the county for building purchase and upfit. The county will own the building and lease it to the company. ReadySC will also provided training support to the company.

Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact Marc Alexander, Regional Human Resources Manager, at malexander@masonite.com.

Masonite International Corporation is a leading global manufacturer of residential and commercial doors, committed to providing the highest value building products to customers in approximately 70 countries around the world. Headquartered in Tampla, Florida, Masonite employs over 7,000 people worldwide. For more information about the company, please visit www.masonite.com.

Gov. Nikki Haley: Obama’s inaction imperils S.C. credit rating

“President Obama needs to lead”

July 20th

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Moody’s Investors Service yesterday announced that, in the wake of a potential downgrade of the United States’ credit rating, South Carolina’s AAA credit rating is at risk. Moody’s made the announcement as President Barack Obama continued to buck plans to rein in Washington spending and pass a balanced budget amendment in Congress.

Governor Nikki Haley said, “In South Carolina, businesses are growing, jobs are being created and elected officials are learning the value of a dollar. But Washington is dysfunctional, and now the fiscal chaos is threatening South Carolina's credit rating. That’s absolutely unacceptable. President Obama needs to lead – it’s time for him to work with Congress to pass real, long-term spending cuts, and let our economy get moving.”

Earlier this week, President Obama threatened to veto “Cut, Cap and Balance,” a plan that calls for significant spending cuts, a statutory spending cap, and a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution as minimum preconditions to raising the debt limit.

“Both political parties have failed our country,” said Gov. Haley. “But what matters is that we now have a chance to make it right and fix our disastrous debt. President Obama's threat to veto ‘Cut, Cap, and Balance’ crystallizes the fact that he has no desire to reduce spending and stop the fiscal train wreck that he has done so much to ignite. Our nation is being led by someone who doesn't understand that our current direction imperils our future. The unfortunate truth is we can no longer afford President Obama’s leadership.”

President “doesn't understand that our current direction imperils our future”

July 20th

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Nikki Haley today released the following statement after President Barack Obama threatened to veto a “Cut, Cap and Balance” plan should it reach his desk:

"Both political parties have failed our country,” said Gov. Haley. “But what matters is that we now have a chance to make it right and fix our disastrous debt. President Obama's threat to veto ‘Cut, Cap, and Balance’ crystallizes the fact that he has no desire to reduce spending and stop the fiscal train wreck that he has done so much to ignite. Our nation is being led by someone who doesn't understand that our current direction imperils our future. The unfortunate truth is we can no longer afford President Obama’s leadership.”

Last week, Gov. Haley and Texas Gov. Rick Perry wrote in an op-ed on “Cut, Cap and Balance” for The Washington Post, “At heart, the pledge represents the reality that yet another temporary fix to our nation’s budgetary woes is no fix at all. The time has come for all of us to begin holding the federal government to the same common-sense standards in place in most states, including South Carolina and Texas.”

Gov. Haley was one of the first governors to sign the “Cut, Cap, Balance” pledge that calls for significant spending cuts, a statutory spending cap, and a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution as minimum preconditions to raising the debt limit.

Break the spend-and-borrow cycle

By Nikki Haley and Rick Perry

July 20th

As governors of states whose residents, like all Americans, are desperate for the restoration of fiscal responsibility in Washington, we are proud to have signed the “Cut, Cap and Balance Pledge” amid the debate over once again raising the federal debt ceiling.

We oppose an increase in the federal debt limit unless three common-sense conditions are met: substantial cuts in spending; enforceable spending caps to put the country on a path to a balanced budget; and congressional passage of a balanced-budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution. That amendment should include a requirement for a congressional supermajority to approve any raises in taxes.

At heart, the pledge represents the reality that yet another temporary fix to our nation’s budgetary woes is no fix at all. The time has come for all of us to begin holding the federal government to the same common-sense standards in place in most states, including South Carolina and Texas.

"Ending the fiscal chaos in Washington starts with real reform to the budgeting process,” said Gov. Haley. “Instead of taking the easy way out and raising the debt limit, it's time for politicians to make the same tough decisions we're making in South Carolina. Not everyone will be happy, but it's the right thing to do for the long-term fiscal health of the country. And if Congress passes a balanced budget amendment, I will do everything I can to make sure South Carolina supports ratification.”

Gov. Haley urged the country’s 46 other governors to sign the pledge, which has already been signed by seven presidential candidates, 28 Congressmen, 12 U.S. Senators, and over 110,000 citizens. A copy of Gov. Haley’s pledge is attached.

The pledge reads as follows:

I, Gov. Nikki R. Haley, pledge to oppose any debt limit increase unless all three of the following conditions have been met:

1. Cut - Substantial cuts in spending that will reduce the deficit next year and thereafter.

2. Cap - Enforceable spending caps that will put federal spending on a path to a balanced budget.

3. Balance - Congressional passage (not mere support) of a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution -- but only if it includes both a spending limitation and a super-majority for raising taxes, in addition to balancing revenues and expenses.

If the above three-part balanced budget amendment is passed by Congress and sent to the states, I also pledge to do everything in my power to support ratification.

July 6th

The governor, participating in the social networking website Twitter’s national town hall where citizens from across America can submit questions for the president, asks President Obama, “Why is your administration supporting the NLRB’s Job Killing Policies in South Carolina? #AskObama”

“Boeing is a great corporate citizen in South Carolina, and their growth here has been a win-win for our state,” said Gov. Haley. “But what we’re seeing from this administration – as it stands by while unions try to put themselves in between our companies and employees – is an attack on not just right-to-work states but on every state that is attempting to put their people to work. For months, the people of our state have waited on answers from the president, and they haven’t gotten any.”

PRETTL Announces New Operations in Greenville County

$1.5 million investment expected to bring 80 new jobs to the area

July 6th

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Gov. Nikki Haley, the South Carolina Department of Commerce and the Greenville Area Development Corporation today announced that PRETTL Electronics Greenville Inc., a new enterprise, will launch operations this summer to produce inverters for the fast-growing solar panel and wind turbine industries. The new operation will be housed at PRETTL Electric Corporation’s existing Greenville County facility.

The new business initiative and addition of a custom production line will account for the addition at least 80 new jobs and investment of upwards of $1.5 million in specialty equipment and space upfitting over the next three years at PRETTL’s facility at 1721 White Horse Road in Greenville. Hiring for at least a dozen positions to launch the effort will begin immediately, officials announced.

“PRETTL has been part of our state’s business community for years and we look forward to the company expanding its presence in South Carolina with this new initiative. The announcement of the new jobs and investment serve as another indication that our state is doing the right things to attract business from around the globe,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

Founded in Germany in 1953, PRETTL has grown to encompass over 5,000 employees at 33 locations in 19 countries around the world, through four primary business units: Automotive, Consumer, Home Appliances and Electronics. PRETTL operations were originally established in Greenville in 1988, where upwards of 100 associates are currently employed.

PRETTL's Electronics Division is a leading end-to-end supplier for electronics providers, offering services ranging from research and development to manufacturing and service after the sale. PRETTL products are found in such diverse industries as medical engineering, telecommunications, automotive and lighting, with the company's diverse product portfolio including electronic components for wireless systems, wireless communication modules, and inverters for photovoltaic and drive system applications.

PRETTL Electronics Greenville Inc. represents the electronics division's first presence in the United States marketplace, and will result in the assembly and distribution of inverters for solar and wind energy industries. Inverters are electrical devices that convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) at any required voltage and frequency with the use of appropriate transformers, switching, and control circuits. Inverters are commonly used to supply AC power from DC sources such as solar panels or wind turbines.

“Our goal with this initiative is to provide outstanding customer service, product quality, high value, and rapid delivery to meet the needs of customers in the growing alternative energy space,” said Rainer Koschate, president of Prettl Electronics Greenville, Inc. “We are pleased to establish operations here in Greenville County, are very appreciative for the support and leadership of the Greenville Area Development Corporation, readySC, South Carolina Department of Commerce, and everyone who assisted in making this announcement a reality.”

The jobs being added include assemblers, quality support positions, planners, warehousing and related positions, Koschate noted. To fill the positions, PRETTL is working with readySC in the recruiting and training of associates. All positions being recruited for will pay “competitive market wages with full benefits based on experience,” he added. Applications for Prettl Electronics are being accepted at the One Stop/Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) Office at McAlister Square in Greenville. The jobs are also posted on the Virtual One Stop system where individuals can apply online from anywhere in the state (www.sconestop.org).

“South Carolina has a strong trade relationship with Germany, with a number of Germany-based companies investing in our state. PRETTL’s decision to further invest in our state will certainly help strengthen that relationship as well as create new jobs for South Carolinians. We appreciate PRETTL’s decision to continue doing business in the Palmetto State,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

“PRETTL is a wonderful example of a company that combines world-class technology, lean processes and Upstate talent to succeed here in the Upstate,” said Chris Riley, chairman of the Greenville Area Development Corporation. “The company is an important member of our international business community, has identified a growth industry with significant potential, and is a wonderful reflection of the economic vitality to be found here in Greenville County.”

Daniel Defense Inc. Announces New Facility in Jasper County

More than $5.3 million investment expected to create 100 new jobs

July 5th

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Gov. Nikki Haley, the South Carolina Department of Commerce and the Lowcountry Economic Network today announced that Daniel Defense Inc. will establish its new manufacturing facility in Jasper County. The more than $5.3 million investment is expected to generate 100 new jobs.

“We are pleased to locate our new operations in South Carolina and look forward to starting production there. Jasper County offered us a positive business environment and had a facility that would suit our needs. We appreciate all the support we have received from state and local officials,” said President and CEO Marty Daniel.

Daniel Defense Inc. will open its second manufacturing facility, the company’s first in South Carolina, in a pre-existing building in Jasper County. Daniel added, “With 90,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space, we are poised to continue to grow our brand in the U.S. firearms industry, international firearms Industry, DoD manufacturing and strategic business relationships. Our goal is to build the best firearms in the world and we view this investment as a key milestone toward achieving that goal. The company expects to have the facility in operation by December 1, 2011.”

“One hundred new jobs in Jasper demonstrates our administration’s commitment to rural areas, and Daniel Defense is an example of a good quality partner for South Carolina that we are excited to welcome and support for many years to come,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

“South Carolina continues to show itself as an extremely competitive for companies looking to set up new operations. The decision by Daniel Defense to locate its new facility in South Carolina is another sign that our state’s business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and exceptional market access are working to attract investments that create new jobs,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

“Daniel Defense is a wonderful addition to our regional economy,” said Gregg Malphrus, chairman of the Lowcountry Economic Alliance. “The company hits right on one of our four target markets and is locating in an existing building. The company is a great fit for the Lowcountry.”

Local officials also believe the company to be a great investment. “Jasper County Council believes job creation to be the number one priority for our council in this economic downturn. We are proud to be a part of this announcement today and welcome the new jobs and capital investment for our citizens,” said Jasper County Council Chairman Leroy Blackshear.

“I am very pleased that Daniel Defense has chosen Ridgeland as the location for its business expansion efforts.” We have all worked together in this community to send the message that we are a business friendly community and our citizens are a tremendous workforce,” said Ridgeland Mayor Gary Hodges.

The company will begin hiring for the positions in August 2011. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should forward a resume to careers@danieldefense.com.

Daniel Defense engineers and manufactures parts, accessories and complete weapons. The company is intensely focused on providing top-quality small arms product solutions to military, commercial and law enforcement markets with innovative engineering and a state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. For more information about the company, please visit www.danieldefense.com.

July 1st

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Nikki Haley has issued a proclamation recognizing the University of South Carolina Gamecocks for winning two straight College World Series NCAA baseball national championships.

The proclamation designates today, Friday, July 1, 2011, as “Gamecock Baseball Back-to-Back National Champions Day